Remove limbs from trees that are overhanging your home. If they come down, there’s only one place for them to go - through your roof or a window. Even small branches can cause damage, cracking roof tiles and allowing water in. Check with your local council about how much you can prune before you need a permit.

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Paint to protect

The constant cycle of heating, cooling and the occasional soaking, all take their toll on the surfaces of your home, especially timber. A fresh coat of paint will protect these surfaces from the harsh elements. Make sure you use exterior paints as they’re designed to be flexible and can take movement as materials expand and contract. While you’re at it, give any outdoor furniture a coat with garden furniture oil so it continues to look good, as well as keeping it in good shape.

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Check your screens

Enjoy those cooling summer breezes without unwanted insect guests by checking your flyscreens. If any are torn, take out the flyscreen and replace it.

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Mulch the garden

Help your garden prepare for the summer heat, with a fresh layer of mulch over your flower beds. Mulch helps your soil to retain moisture so your plants will fare better between watering. Mulch also helps prevent the growth of weeds so there’s less gardening to do and more time to enjoy the summer sun.

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Clear the gutters

Help your home cope with the deluge from sudden summer storms by cleaning out your gutters. If water can’t flow away quickly enough, it could overflow into your home causing even more damage. Take care if using a ladder and wear heavy-duty gloves.

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Keep things down

Plastic outdoor furniture, kids play equipment and building materials can become dangerous if picked up by strong gusts of wind. Weigh or tie down any materials you have lying around. For other items that are used more often, have a rope at hand and keep an eye on storm warnings. If you hear that something nasty is heading your way, tie these down as well.